After a long campaign led by the Irish Wheelchair Association’s (IWA) local access group in Béal an Mhuirthead, and resolution of public liability insurance issues, Mayo County Council took ownership of the mats—making the beach officially accessible.

The result has been transformative. For many, including Teresa Gaughan, born with spina bifida, it’s a milestone moment. “The mats are ideal,” she said. “This is a pinch-me moment—I never thought I’d be on a beach in my own wheelchair. We all deserve this.”

The mats offer freedom and inclusion, allowing wheelchair users to participate in beach activities with friends and family, without needing hoists or special buggies. Campaigners are now pushing to replicate this success across all Irish Blue Flag beaches.

Noel Cawley, who hadn't been on a beach in 30 years, described the experience as "amazing." Mary Walsh shared the joy of bringing her 14-year-old daughter, Grace, to the shore, finally able to access the sand instead of watching from the car park. “It’s the most wonderful feeling,” she said.

The IWA’s new “Rolling Waves” campaign is calling on local councils nationwide to follow Mayo’s lead. “Access to Blue Flag beaches is a right under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities,” said Rosaleen Lally, National Access Programme Manager. “This isn’t about luxury—it’s about dignity.”

Council representative Séamus Ó Mongáin emphasized the importance of working with communities and ensuring access where environmental conditions allow. As more local authorities engage with groups like the IWA, hopes are high that inclusive access to Ireland’s coastline will become the norm, not the exception.